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Abstract:

A power feeding plug locking device that locks a power feeding plug to a
power feeding inlet. The power feeding inlet is arranged in a machine
including a door that can be locked. The locking device includes a lock
mechanism of which operational state is shifted between a lock state and
an unlock state. The lock mechanism prohibits removal of the power
feeding plug from the inlet in the lock state and allows removal of the
power feeding plug from the inlet in the unlock state. An operation unit
is operated when switching the operational state of the lock mechanism
between the lock state and the unlock state. A door lock state
confirmation unit confirms whether the door of the machine is locked. A
controller controls the operational state of the lock mechanism based on
the operation of operation unit whether the door is locked.

Claims:

1. A power feeding plug locking device that locks a power feeding plug to
a power feeding inlet, wherein the power feeding inlet is arranged in a
machine including a door that can be locked, the power feeding plug
locking device comprising: a lock mechanism of which an operational state
is shifted between a lock state and an unlock state, wherein the lock
mechanism prohibits removal of the power feeding plug from the inlet in
the lock state and allows removal of the power feeding plug from the
inlet in the unlock state; an operation unit operated when shifting the
operational state of the lock mechanism between the lock state and the
unlock state; a door lock state confirmation unit that confirms whether
the door of the machine is locked; and a controller that controls the
operational state of the lock mechanism based on operation of the
operation unit and whether the door is locked.

2. The power feeding plug locking device according to claim 1, wherein
the controller controls operation of the lock mechanism if the power
feeding plug is connected to the inlet.

3. The power feeding plug locking device according to claim 1, wherein
the controller shifts the lock mechanism to the lock state when the door
is locked, and the controller shifts the lock mechanism to the unlock
state when the operation unit is operated and the door is unlocked.

4. The power feeding plug locking device according to claim 1, further
comprising a lid that opens and closes the inlet, wherein the operation
unit is arranged near a power feeding connector in the inlet and is
exposed to the exterior when the lid opens the inlet.

5. The power feeding plug locking device according to claim 1, further
comprising a notification unit that notifies a user of completion of the
operation of the lock mechanism when the lock mechanism is shifted from
the lock state to the unlock state or when the lock mechanism is shifted
from the unlock state to the lock state.

6. The power feeding plug locking device according to claim 1, further
comprising a protector that covers the inlet while exposing a receptacle
of the inlet to which the power feeding plug is connected, wherein the
operation unit is arranged on the protector.

7. The power feeding plug locking device according to claim 1, wherein
the power feeding plug includes a hook that can be hooked to the inlet,
the lock mechanism includes a lock member that moves between a lock
position and an unlock position, the lock member restricts movement of
the hook and prohibits removal of the power feeding plug at the lock
position, and the lock member permits movement of the hook and allows
removal of the power feeding plug at the unlock position.

8. The power feeding plug locking device according to claim 1, wherein
the machine includes a communication master that performs wireless
communication with a communication terminal carried by a user and
verifies the communication terminal, and the door is locked and unlocked
when the verification is successful.

9. The power feeding plug locking device according to claim 1, wherein
the operation unit is an unlock switch operated when shifting the
operational state of the lock mechanism from the lock state to the unlock
state, and the controller allows the lock mechanism to shift to the
unlock state when the door lock state confirmation unit that confirms an
unlock state of the door and the unlock switch is operated.

10. The power feeding plug locking device according to claim 1, wherein
the machine is a vehicle, and the door is a vehicle door.

Description:

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority
from prior Japanese Patent Application No. 2010-222449, filed on Sep. 30,
2010, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to a power feeding plug locking
device that locks a power feeding plug, which is connected to an inlet to
charge a battery.

[0003] Nowadays, automobile manufacturers are making strong efforts toward
the development of electric vehicles, including hybrid vehicles, to
reduce vehicle emissions. Electric vehicles are driven by motors. In such
an electric vehicle, a battery serves as a power source of the vehicle.
Whenever the state of charge of the vehicle battery becomes low, the
battery is charged, for example, by a household power outlet or at a
charging station.

[0004] Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 9-161898 describes a
power feeding system installed in an electric vehicle that can easily be
handled by a user. In the prior art, the vehicle includes an inlet that
accommodates a power feeding connector, which is connectable to a power
feeding plug extending from, for example, a household power outlet. When
the user is at home, the user connects the power feeding plug to the
inlet of the parked vehicle. This supplies the vehicle with commercial
power and charges the vehicle battery.

[0005] A power feeding plug locking device is used to prevent unauthorized
removal of the power feeding plug from the inlet. One example of such a
locking device includes a lock bar moved back and forth by a motor, which
serves as a drive source. In this structure, when connecting the power
feeding plug to the inlet, the locking device moves the lock bar to a
lock position and locks the power feeding plug. When the power feeding
plug is in such a lock state, the power feeding plug cannot be removed
from the inlet. When removing the power feeding plug from the inlet, the
lock bar is moved to an unlock position to unlock the power feeding plug.
This allows the power feeding plug to be moved.

[0006] In the above-described power feeding plug locking device, the
operations for locking and unlocking the power feeding plug with the
locking device may be burdensome for a user. Japanese Patent No. 4379823
describes a power feeding plug locking device that solves such a problem.
The power feeding plug locking device locks and unlocks a power feeding
plug in cooperation with the locking and unlocking of the vehicle doors.
This structure is convenient since the user simply locks and unlocks the
doors to operate the power feeding plug locking device.

[0007] When the power feeding plug locking device cooperates with the door
lock, the power feeding plug locking device performs a locking operation
and an unlocking operation whenever the doors are locked and unlocked.
Thus, the power feeding plug locking device is operated even when there
is no need for it to be operated. As a result, the operation frequency of
the power feeding plug locking device is increased. This may adversely
affect the durability of the components forming the power feeding plug
locking device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present invention provides a power feeding plug locking device
that improves the durability of components.

[0009] One aspect of the present invention is a power feeding plug locking
device that locks a power feeding plug to a power feeding inlet. The
power feeding inlet is arranged in a machine including a door that can be
locked. The power feeding plug locking device includes a lock mechanism
of which an operational state is shifted between a lock state and an
unlock state. The lock mechanism prohibits removal of the power feeding
plug from the inlet in the lock state and allows removal of the power
feeding plug from the inlet in the unlock state. An operation unit is
operated when shifting the operational state of the lock mechanism
between the lock state and the unlock state. A door lock state
confirmation unit confirms whether the door of the machine is locked. A
controller controls the operational state of the lock mechanism based on
the operation of operation unit and whether the door is locked.

[0010] Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become
apparent from the following description, taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, illustrating by way of example the principles of
the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The invention, together with objects and advantages thereof, may
best be understood by reference to the following description of the
presently preferred embodiments together with the accompanying drawings
in which:

[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing a vehicle and a
charging system;

[0013] FIG. 2 is a front view showing an inlet including a power feeding
connector;

[0014]FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a structure for
coupling the inlet of FIG. 2;

[0015]FIG. 4 is an exploded side view, partially in enlarged
cross-sectional views, showing the structure for coupling the inlet of
FIG. 2;

[0016]FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a power feeding
plug;

[0017] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a lock mechanism in an unlock
state;

[0018] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the lock mechanism in a lock
state;

[0019]FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the power feeding plug when
connected to a power receiving connector of the inlet;

[0020] FIG. 9 is a front view showing the inlet in a state in which the
power feeding plug is connected to the power receiving connector;

[0021] FIG. 10A is a flowchart showing a process for performing a locking
operation with the power feeding plug locking device;

[0022] FIG. 10B is a flowchart showing a process for performing an
unlocking operation with the power feeding plug locking device;

[0023]FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a process for performing the
unlocking operation with the power feeding plug locking device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] A power feeding plug locking device according to one embodiment of
the present invention will now be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to
10. The power feeding plug locking device is arranged in, for example, an
inlet of a plug-in hybrid vehicle 1.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 1, the hybrid vehicle 1 includes drive wheels 2
and a hybrid system 3, which combines and outputs the drive forces of an
engine and motor that serve as drive sources of the drive wheels 2. The
hybrid system 3 controls the hybrid vehicle 1 in various modes, such as a
mode using only the engine to drive the drive wheels 2, a mode using the
motor while generating electric power with the engine to drive the drive
wheels 2, a mode using both the engine and the motor to drive the drive
wheels 2, and a mode using only the motor to drive the drive wheels 2.

[0026] The hybrid system 3 is connected to a battery 4 that supplies the
motor with power. The battery 4 is not only charged by the electric power
the engine generates but may also be charged with nighttime electricity
or the like using an external power supply 61, such as a household power
outlet.

[0027] The vehicle 1 includes an electronic key system 70, which performs
vehicle operations such as the locking and unlocking of doors without the
driver actually operating a vehicle key. The electronic key system 70
uses an electronic key 80 as the vehicle key. The electronic key 80 is
capable of transmitting a unique ID code through wireless communication.
In the electronic key system 70, the vehicle 1 transmits a request signal
Srq, which serves as an ID code return request. When the electronic key
80 receives the request signal Srq, in response, the electronic key 80
returns an ID code signal Sid to the vehicle 1 through narrowband
wireless communication. The ID code signal Sid includes the unique ID
code of the electronic key 80. When the ID code of the electronic key 80
conforms to the ID code of the vehicle 1, a vehicle operation such as the
locking or unlocking of the doors is permitted or performed. The
electronic key 80 functions as a communication terminal.

[0028] The electronic key system 70 will now be described. The vehicle 1
includes a verification electronic control unit (ECU) 71, which performs
ID verification when performing narrowband wireless communication with
the electronic key 80. The verification ECU 71 is connected to a vehicle
exterior low frequency (LF) transmitter 72, a vehicle interior LF
transmitter 73, and an ultrahigh frequency (UHF) receiver 74. The vehicle
exterior LF transmitter 72 is arranged, for example, in each door of the
vehicle 1 and transmits wireless signals out of the vehicle 1 on an LF
band. The vehicle interior LF transmitter 73 is arranged, for example, in
the vehicle under the floor and transmits wireless signals to the
interior of the vehicle 1 on an LF band. The UHF receiver 74 is arranged,
for example, in the rear of the vehicle body to receive signals on the
UHF band. The verification ECU 71 functions as a communication master.

[0029] The electronic key 80 includes a communication control unit 81,
which functions to perform wireless communication with the vehicle 1 in
compliance with the electronic key system 70. The communication control
unit 81 includes a memory 81a, which stores the unique ID code as a
unique key code. The communication control unit 81 is connected to an LF
receiver 82, which receives signals on the LF band, and a UHF transmitter
83, which transmits signals on the UHF band in accordance with commands
from the communication control unit 81.

[0030] The verification ECU 71 transmits the request signal Srq on the LF
band to the electronic key 80 from the vehicle exterior LF transmitter 72
or the vehicle interior LF transmitter 73 to perform the so-called smart
communication. When the verification ECU 71 receives the ID code signal
Sid from the electronic key 80 in response to the request signal Srq, the
verification ECU 71 performs ID verification, or smart verification. When
smart verification performed with the electronic key 80 outside the
vehicle 1, namely, vehicle exterior verification, is successful, a door
ECU 78 permits the locking and unlocking of the doors. For example, when
the driver touches a lock sensor 57, which is arranged on a door handle
56, the door ECU 78 locks the doors with a door locking device 79. When
the driver touches an unlock sensor 58, which is arranged on the door
handle 56, the door ECU 78 unlocks the doors with the door locking device
79. Further, when smart verification performed with the electronic key 80
inside the vehicle 1, namely, vehicle interior verification, is
successful, the verification ECU 71 permits activation of the hybrid
system 3.

[0031] The electronic key system 70 includes a wireless key system that
functions to lock and unlock the vehicle doors by transmitting a lock
signal Sl or unlock signal Sul through wireless communication to the
vehicle 1 when a switch of the electronic key 80 is operated. The
verification ECU 71 manages the operation of the wireless key system. For
example, the electronic key 80 includes a lock button 84, which transmits
the lock signal Sul, and an unlock button 85, which transmits the unlock
signal Sul. The lock button 84 and unlock button 85 are connected to the
communication control unit 81. In this case, the UHF transmitter 83
transmits the lock signal Sl or unlock signal Sul, which includes the
unique ID code of the electronic key 80, on the UHF band.

[0032] When the lock button 84 is operated, the lock signal Sl is
transmitted from the UHF transmitter 83 of the electronic key 80. When
the verification ECU 71 receives the lock signal Sl with the UHF receiver
74, the verification ECU 71 performs ID verification by verifying the ID
code of the electronic key 80 with an ID code registered in its memory
71a. When the ID verification is successful, the verification ECU 71
sends a door lock command to the door ECU 78 to lock the doors with the
door locking device 79.

[0033] When the unlock button 85 is operated, the lock signal Sul is
transmitted from the UHF transmitter 83 of the electronic key 80. When
the verification ECU 71 receives the unlock signal Sul with the UHF
receiver 74, the verification ECU 71 performs ID verification by
verifying the ID code of the electronic key 80 with an ID code registered
in the memory 71a. When the ID verification is successful, the
verification ECU 71 sends a door unlock command to the door ECU 78 to
unlock the doors with the door locking device 79.

[0034] The vehicle 1 includes a battery charging system 60. The charging
system 60 includes a power feeding plug 10 used to charge the battery 4.
The power feeding plug 10 extends from an external power supply 61 of,
for example, a household power outlet or a charging station. The power
feeding plug 10 is connected by a cable 12 to the external power supply
61 (commercial power supply), which supplies 200 V of AC power, for
example.

[0035] The plug-in hybrid vehicle 1 includes an inlet 5, which receives
the power feeding plug 10. The inlet 5 is arranged in, for example, a
front side surface of the vehicle body, and resembles a fuel tank opening
of a gasoline vehicle. The inlet 5 includes a power receiving connector
20, which receives the power feeding plug 10. A converter 6 converts the
AC power supplied from the power feeding plug 10 to DC voltage and
charges the battery 4 with the DC voltage. The vehicle 1 allows charging
to be performed when the power feeding plug 10 is fitted to the power
receiving connector 20 and the electronic key 80 carried by the driver is
verified. The vehicle 1 is one example of a machine.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 2, the power receiving connector 20 is arranged in
the middle of the inlet 5. The power receiving connector 20 includes a
receptacle 21. A plurality of connection terminals 25 are arranged in the
receptacle 21 to electrically connect the power feeding plug 10 and power
receiving connector 20. The connection terminals 25 include power
terminals 25a, which provide a power transmission route, and signal
terminals 25b, which provide communication routes for various types of
signals. The power receiving connector 20 includes a peripheral upper
surface 22 that defines a catch 23. The power feeding plug 10 includes a
hook 16, which can be hooked to the catch 23.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 5, the power feeding plug 10 has a main body 11. A
cylindrical coupler 14 is arranged on a distal end 11a of the main body
11. The coupler 14 is fitted into the receptacle 21 of the power
receiving connector 20. A plurality of connection terminals 15 are
arranged in the coupler 14. The connection terminals 15 are electrically
connected to the connection terminals 25 of the power receiving connector
20. The connection terminals 15 include power terminals 15a, which
provide a power transmission route, and signal terminals 15b, which
provide communication routes for various types of signals.

[0038] The hook 16 of the power feeding plug 10 is arranged on an upper
part of the coupler 14. The hook 16 holds the power feeding plug 10 in a
state fitted into the power receiving connector 20. When the hook 16 is
moved to a close position as shown by the solid lines in FIG. 5 and
hooked to the catch 23 of the power receiving connector 20, the power
feeding plug 10 is held on the power receiving connector 20. When the
hook 16 is pivoted and moved away from the coupler 14 to an open position
as shown by the broken lines in FIG. 5, removal of the power feeding plug
10 from the power receiving connector 20 is allowed. An urging spring 17
normally urges the hook 16 to the close position. The main body 11 of the
power feeding plug 10 includes a grip 13. A lever 18 is arranged in the
upper side of the grip 13. The lever 18 is pushed to pivot the hook 16
about a pivot shaft 19 and move the hook 16 to the open position.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 1, the vehicle 1 includes a charge ECU 75, which
executes charging-related control. The charge ECU 75 communicates with
the verification ECU 71 through an in-vehicle local area network (LAN) 76
and receives ID verification results from the verification ECU 71. When
starting charging, the charge ECU 75 checks whether charging conditions
are satisfied, which are the ID verification having been successful and
the power feeding plug 10 having been fitted to the power receiving
connector 20.

[0040] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the charging system 60 includes a power
feeding plug locking device 40. The locking device 40 includes a lock
mechanism 41, which serves as a mechanical portion that holds the power
feeding plug 10 in a state connected to the inlet 5. A case 42
accommodates components forming the lock mechanism 41. In this example,
the lock mechanism 41 is an electrical lock mechanism and includes a
motor 43, which serves as a driving device, a transmission rod 44, a
stopper 45, a lock bar 46, and a lock member 47. The transmission rod 44,
which may be a geared shaft, is rotated by the driving force of the motor
43. The stopper 45 converts rotational motion of the transmission rod 44
to linear motion of the stopper 45. The lock bar 46 moves in
correspondence with the linear motion of the stopper 45 and engages the
lock member 47, which is located above the hook 16, to hold the hook 16
in a restricted state. The restricted state refers to a state in which
the hook 16 cannot move to the open position.

[0041] The structure of the lock mechanism 41 will now be described in
detail. The transmission rod 44 is fixed to and rotated integrally with a
drive shaft of the motor 43. The transmission rod 44 is cylindrical and
includes a threaded portion 44a, which has threads extending in the
circumferential direction.

[0042] The stopper 45 is engaged with the transmission rod 44 and is in
contact with the lock bar 46 to move the lock bar 46 in the axial
direction of the motor 43. A bore extends through the central portion of
the stopper 45 in the axial direction of the transmission rod 44. A
threaded portion 45a is formed by the wall of the bore. The threaded
portion 45a of the stopper 45 is engaged with the threaded portion 44a of
the transmission rod 44 to integrally couple the transmission rod 44 and
stopper 45. Thus, when the transmission rod 44 is rotated by the motor
43, the threaded portion 44a of the transmission rod 44 rotates in the
threaded portion 45a of the stopper 45. The lock bar 46 restricts
rotation of the stopper 45. Accordingly, the stopper 45 is moved straight
in the axial direction of the transmission rod 44.

[0043] The lock member 47 is arranged above the hook 16 when hooked to the
catch 23 and supported to be pivotal about a pivot shaft 47a. The lock
member 47 includes an engagement recess 47b. The lock bar 46, when
engaged with the engagement recess 47b, restricts movement of the lock
member 47. When the lock bar 46 restricts movement of the lock member 47,
movement of the hook 16 is restricted. This holds the hook 16 in a
restricted state. The stopper 45 is movable back and forth between two
positions, namely, a lock position (restriction position) and an unlock
position (non-restriction position). At the lock position, the lock bar
46 is engaged with the engagement recess 47b of the lock member 47 and
restricts movement of the hook 16. At the unlock position, the lock bar
46 is disengaged from the engagement recess 47b of the lock member 47 and
allows movement of the hook 16.

[0044] The lock bar 46 is flat. A buffer hole 46a extends through the
central part of the lock bar 46. A tab 45b, which extends from the lower
part of the stopper 45, is loosely fitted in the buffer hole 46a. More
specifically, in a state in which the tab 45b is fitted into the buffer
hole 46a, a gap is formed between the tab 45b and an inner wall of the
lock bar 46 defining the buffer hole 46a. When the tab 45b comes into
contact with the inner wall of the lock bar 46, movement of the stopper
45 from the lock position to the unlock position moves the lock bar 46
from a lock position to an unlock position (refer to FIG. 6).

[0045] An urging spring 48 is arranged in the gap between the tab 45b and
the portion of the inner wall located closer to the lock member 47 of the
lock bar 46. The urging spring 48 constantly urges the lock bar 46 toward
the lock position. Accordingly, due to the urging spring 48, the tab 45b
is constantly in contact with the portion of the inner wall of the lock
bar 46 that is located closer to the motor 43. When the stopper 45 moves
from the unlock position to the lock position, the tab 45b pushes the
inner wall of the lock bar 46 by means of the urging spring 48 and moves
the lock bar 46 from the unlock position to the loc position (refer to
FIG. 7). When the hook 16 is not completely hooked to the catch 23 and is
thus in a semi-engaged state, the hook 16 interferes with the lock bar
46, and the lock bar 46 cannot be moved from the unlock position to the
lock position. In such a case, the buffer hole 46a and the urging spring
48 absorb the moving force of the stopper 45. This reduces the load
applied by the stopper 45 to the lock bar 46.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the locking device 40 includes a hook
detection switch 27, which detects whether the hook 16 is hooked to the
catch 23. A slide piece 26 is arranged at the hooking position of the
hook 16. When the hook 16 is hooked to the catch 23, the slide piece 26
moves laterally and perpendicular to the hooking direction of the hook
16. The hook detection switch 27 detects the engagement of the hook 16
when detecting movement of the slide piece 26. The slide piece 26 is
constantly urged toward the hook 16.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 1, the inlet 5 includes a lock ECU 77, which
serves as a control unit of the power feeding plug locking device 40. The
lock ECU 77 is connected to the in-vehicle LAN 76 and exchanges various
types of information with other ECUs such as the charge ECU 75 and the
door ECU 78. The lock ECU 77 is connected to the hook detection switch 27
and motor 43, which are arranged in the lock mechanism 41 of the inlet 5.
The lock ECU 77 controls activation of the motor 43 to switch an
operational state of the lock mechanism 41 between a lock state and an
unlock state. When the lock mechanism 41 is in the lock state, movement
of the hook 16 is restricted and removal of the power feeding plug 10 is
prohibited. When the lock mechanism 41 is in the unlock state, movement
of the hook 16 is permitted and removal of the power feeding plug 10 is
allowed.

[0048] In the charging system 60 of the present embodiment, when the power
feeding plug 10 is connected to the power receiving connector 20, the
locking device 40 performs a locking operation of the lock mechanism 41
in cooperation with the locking operation of the vehicle doors to hold
the power feeding plug 10 in a state connected to the power receiving
connector 20. The hook detection switch 27 monitors whether the hook 16
is hooked to the catch 23. When detecting hooking of the hook 16, the
hook detection switch 27 sends a hook detection signal to the charge ECU
75 and lock ECU 77.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 2, the locking device 40 is arranged above the
power receiving connector 20. A cover module 7, which covers the outer
side of the inlet 5, is coupled to the inlet 5. The cover module 7
includes an opening 30 through which the receptacle 21 of the power
receiving connector 20 is exposed. In this manner, the cover module 7
covers portions of the inlet 5 excluding the receptacle 21 of the power
receiving connector 20. The cover module 7 functions as a protector.

[0050] An unlock switch 31, which is operated to release the operational
state of the lock mechanism 41 from the lock state, is arranged in the
cover module 7. The unlock switch 31 is formed by, for example, a push
type momentary switch and sends an operation signal (switch signal) when
pushed to the lock ECU 77. The unlock switch 31 is arranged near the
power receiving connector 20 and is exposed to the exterior when a lid 9
is open. The unlock switch 31 is one example of an operation unit.

[0051] An answer lamp 32, which indicates the operational state of the
lock mechanism 41, is arranged in the cover module 7. The answer lamp 32
is connected to the lock ECU 77, which controls the illumination state of
the answer lamp 32. For example, the answer lamp 32 flashes once in green
when the operational state of the lock mechanism 41 is shifted to the
lock state and flashes twice in green when the operational state of the
lock mechanism 41 is shifted to the unlock state. Further, the answer
lamp 32 is continuously illuminated in red when an operation failure
occurs in the lock mechanism 41. The answer lamp 32 is one example of a
notification unit.

[0052] A charge indicator 33, which indicates the state of charge of the
battery 4, is arranged in the cover module 7. The charge indicator 33 is
connected to the lock ECU 77, which controls the indication of the charge
indicator 33. The charge indicator 33 includes, for example, three lamps
arranged next to one another in the vertical direction. The charge
indicator 33 selectively illuminates the displays in accordance with the
state of charge of the battery 4. For example, when the battery 4 is
fully charged, the charge indicator 33 illuminates all three lamps. The
charge indicator 33 is always illuminated when the lid 9 of the inlet 5
is open and turned off when the lid 9 is closed.

[0053] A lid detection switch 35, which detects the opening of the lid 9,
is arranged in the inlet 5. The lid detection switch 35 includes a slide
piece 36, which is retracted by the lid 9 as the lid 9 closes. The lid
detection switch 35 detects the opening and closing of the lid 9 when the
slide piece 36 moves and sends a detection signal to the lock ECU 77. The
slide piece 36 is coupled to the power receiving connector 20, projected
out of the cover module 7, and urged out of the inlet 5.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the inlet 5 includes a coupling
mechanism 50 that couples the power receiving connector 20, the locking
device 40, and the cover module 7 to the vehicle body 51 with bolts 55
from the inner side of the vehicle body 51. The bolts 55 are fastened
from the inner side of the vehicle body 51 to prevent the bolts 55 from
being unfastened when one attempts to perform an unlocking operation in
an unauthorized manner with the locking device 40. Thus, in the present
example, the bolts 55 are hidden in the vehicle body 51 to prevent
unauthorized removal of the bolts 55.

[0055] The power receiving connector 20 is first coupled to the inlet 5 of
the vehicle body 51. The power receiving connector 20 has four corners,
each including a connector bolt hole 52 aligned with a corresponding body
bolt hole 59 of the vehicle body 51. Then, the locking device 40 is
coupled to the outer side of the power receiving connector 20. The
locking device 40 includes two device bolt holes 53 aligned with the two
upper connector bolt holes 52 of the power receiving connector 20. The
cover module 7 is coupled to the outer side of the power receiving
connector 20 and locking device 40. The bolts 55 are inserted through the
bolt holes 52 and 53 from the inner side of the vehicle body 51 and mated
with threaded holes 34, which are formed in the cover module 7, to fasten
the power receiving connector 20, the locking device 40, and the cover
module 7 to the vehicle body 51.

[0056] As shown by the left enlarged view in FIG. 4, at the lower portion
of the inlet 5, the bolts 55 fasten together the vehicle body 51, the
power receiving connector 20, and the cover module 7. As shown by the
right enlarged view in FIG. 4, at the upper portion of the inlet 5, the
bolts 55 fasten together the vehicle body 51, the power receiving
connector 20, the locking device 40, and the cover module 7.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 1, the lock ECU 77 includes a door lock state
acquisition circuit 77a, which acquires a door locking state signal
indicating whether the doors are locked from the door ECU 78. The door
lock state acquisition circuit 77a may directly acquire the door lock
state signal (door lock signal/door unlock signal) from the door ECU 78.
Alternatively, the door lock state acquisition circuit 77a may make an
inquiry to the door ECU 78 to indirectly acquire the door lock state
signal. The door lock state acquisition circuit 77a corresponds to a door
lock state conformation unit.

[0058] The lock ECU 77 further includes a lock mechanism controller 77b,
which controls the operation of the lock mechanism 41. When the lock
mechanism 41 is in the unlock state, the lock mechanism controller 77b
sends a forward rotation drive signal to the motor 43 and shifts the lock
mechanism 41 to the lock state if the hook detection signal and the door
lock signal are acquired.

[0059] The lock mechanism controller 77b allows removal of the power
feeding plug 10 from the power receiving connector 20 if a door unlocking
operation is performed and the unlock switch 31 is operated. Operation of
the unlock switch 31 when the lock mechanism 41 is in the lock state
sends an operation signal to the lock mechanism controller 77b.
Accordingly, if the operation signal is acquired from the unlock switch
31 and if the door unlock signal is acquired from the door ECU 78, the
lock mechanism controller 77b sends a reverse rotation drive signal to
the motor 43 and shifts the lock mechanism 41 to the unlock state. The
lock mechanism controller 77b corresponds to a controller.

[0060] The lock ECU 77 also includes a lamp illumination controller 77c,
which controls the illumination of the answer lamp 32. When the lock
mechanism 41 is shifted to the lock state, the lamp illumination
controller 77c, for example, flashes the answer lamp 32 once in green
when the operational state of the lock mechanism 41 is shifted to the
lock state to indicate lock completion. When the lock mechanism 41 is
shifted to the unlock state, the lamp illumination controller 77c, for
example, flashes the answer lamp 32 twice in green when the operational
state of the lock mechanism 41 is shifted to the unlock state to indicate
unlock completion. When the lock mechanism 41 cannot perform a locking or
unlocking operation in a normal manner, the lamp illumination controller
77c, for example, continuously illuminates the answer lamp 32 in red to
indicate an error.

[0061] Further, the lock ECU 77 includes a state of charge (SOC)
acquisition circuit 77d, which acquires the state of charge from the
charge ECU 75. When receiving a lid open signal from the lid detection
switch 35, the SOC acquisition circuit 77d periodically makes inquiries
to the charge ECU 75 to acquire the state of charge.

[0062] The lock ECU 77 also includes an indicator controller 77e, which
controls the indication of the charge indicator 33. The indicator
controller 77e indicates the state of charge acquired by the SOC
acquisition circuit 77d on the charge indicator 33. For example, when the
state of charge of the battery 4 is low, the indicator controller 77e
illuminates only the lowest one of the three lamps of the charge
indicator 33 (refer to FIG. 2).

[0063] The operation of the locking device 40 when charging the battery 4
with the power feeding plug 10 will now be discussed with reference to
FIGS. 2 and 6 to 10.

[0064] The lid 9 of the inlet 5 is first opened to charge the battery 4 of
the vehicle 1 with the power feeding plug 10, as shown in the state of
FIG. 2. As the lid 9 opens, the slide piece 36, which is connected to the
lid detection switch 35, moves outward from the inlet 5. Based on the
movement of the slide piece 36, the lid detection switch 35 sends a lid
open signal to the lock ECU 77. In this state, the indicator controller
77e shows the state of charge on the charge indicator 33 based on the
state of charge acquired by the SOC acquisition circuit 77d. In this
case, the state of charge is low. Thus, only the lowest lamp of the
charge indicator 33 is illuminated. Then, a connector cap 24 of the power
receiving connector 20 is opened.

[0065] Subsequently, referring to FIG. 8, in a state in which the hook 16
is aligned with the catch 23, the power feeding plug 10 is fitted to the
power receiving connector 20. Here, the side surface of the hook 16 comes
into contact with the slide piece 26. Accordingly, the hook detection
switch 27 detects the engagement of the hook 16 with the catch 23 from
the movement of the slide piece 26 and sends a hook detection signal to
the lock ECU 77.

[0066] When the power feeding plug 10 reaches the innermost position of
the power receiving connector 20, the connection terminals 15 of the
power feeding plug 10 are connected to the connection terminals 25 of the
power receiving connector 20. Here, the upper surface of the hook 16 is
in contact with the lock member 47. When the connection terminals 15 of
the power feeding plug 10 are connected to the connection terminals 25 of
the inlet 5, the lock ECU 77 acquires a connection signal from the signal
terminals 25b and recognizes connection of the power feeding plug 10 and
inlet 5.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 10A, when the power feeding plug 10 is connected
to the power receiving connector 20, the lock ECU 77 determines whether a
door locking operation has been performed (step S1). More specifically,
the door lock state acquisition circuit 77a determines whether a door
lock signal has been received from the door ECU 78. When the doors are in
an unlock state (step S1: NO), the lock ECU 77 waits until the doors are
locked, that is, until the door lock state acquisition circuit 77a
receives the door lock signal.

[0068] Subsequently, when the doors are locked (step S1: YES), the lock
ECU 77 shifts the locking device 40 to the lock state (step S2). In this
manner, when the user performs a door locking operation in a state in
which the power feeding plug 10 is connected to the power receiving
connector 20, the locking device 40 is automatically shifted to the lock
state. As described above, the door locking operation may be an operation
in which an authorized user, who is carrying the electronic key 80,
touches the lock sensor 57 on the door handle 56 or an operation in which
the user pushes the lock button 84 of the electronic key 80. Here, as
long as the authorized user performs a door locking operation (i.e.,
locking of the power feeding plug 10), the electronic key 80 carried by
the authorized user successfully performs ID verification. If ID
verification is successful, the door ECU 78 sends a door lock signal to
the door locking device 79 and the lock ECU 77.

[0069] If the hook detection signal and the door lock signal have been
acquired, the lock mechanism controller 77b sends a forward rotation
drive signal to the motor 43 of the lock mechanism 41 and engages the
lock bar 46 with the lock member 47 (refer to FIG. 6). This restricts
movement of the hook 16 with the lock member 47. Thus, removal of the
hook 16 from the catch 23 is restricted. Here, the lamp illumination
controller 77c flashes the answer lamp 32 once in green to indicate lock
completion (refer to FIG. 9). Once in the lock state, current starts to
flow from the power feeding plug 10 to the inlet 5 to charge the battery
4.

[0070] When the lock mechanism 41 is in the lock state, the lock member 47
restricts movement of the hook 16. Thus, the hook 16 cannot be separated
from the catch 23. Accordingly, an unauthorized person cannot remove the
power feeding plug 10 from the inlet 5.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 10B, when charging is completed, the lock ECU 77
determines whether a door unlocking operation has been performed (step
S3). More specifically, the door lock state acquisition circuit 77a
determines whether a door unlock signal has been received from the door
ECU 78. When the doors are in a lock state (step S3: NO), the lock ECU 77
waits until the doors are unlocked, that is, until the door lock state
acquisition circuit 77a receives the door unlock signal.

[0072] Then, when the doors are unlocked (step S3: YES), the lock ECU 77
determines whether the unlock switch 31 has been operated (step S4). When
an operation signal has not been received from the unlock switch 31 (step
S4: NO), the lock ECU 77 waits until the operation signal is received.

[0073] When the operation signal is received from the unlock switch 31
(step S4: YES), the lock ECU 77 shifts the lock mechanism 41 to the
unlock state (step S5). When removing the power feeding plug 10 from the
inlet 5 after charging of the battery 4 is completed, the user performs a
door unlocking operation and also operates the unlock switch 31. As
mentioned above, the door unlocking operation may be an operation in
which an authorized user, who is carrying the electronic key 80, touches
the unlock sensor 58 on the door handle 56 or an operation in which the
user pushes the unlock button 85 of the electronic key 80. Here, as long
as the authorized user is removing the power feeding plug 10, the
electronic key 80 carried by the authorized user successfully performs ID
verification. If ID verification is successful, the door ECU 78 sends a
door unlock signal to the door locking device 79 and the lock ECU 77.

[0074] If the operation signal of the unlock switch 31 and the door unlock
signal have been acquired, the lock mechanism controller 77b sends a
reverse rotation drive signal to the motor 43 of the lock mechanism 41
and disengages the lock bar 46 from the lock member 47 (refer to FIG. 7).
This shifts the lock mechanism 41 to the unlock state. Here, the lamp
illumination controller 77c flashes the answer lamp 32 twice in green to
indicate unlock completion.

[0075] In this state, the user pushes the lever 18 of the power feeding
plug 10 to disengage the hook 16 from the catch 23 and then pulls the
hook 16 away from the catch 23. This removes the power feeding plug 10
from the power receiving connector 20 of the inlet 5.

[0076] In the present embodiment, the locking device 40 performs a locking
operation on the lock mechanism 41 when a door locking operation is
performed to prohibit removal of the power feeding plug 10. Further, the
locking device 40 performs an unlocking operation on the lock mechanism
41, when a door unlocking operation is performed and the unlock switch 31
is operated, to allow removal of the power feeding plug 10. Thus, the
locking device 40 is not operated whenever a door locking operation is
performed, and the component durability of the locking device 40 is
improved. Further, the unlock switch 31 is required to be operated when
performing an unlocking operation of the lock mechanism 41. This prompts
the user to perform the operation of the unlock switch 31 to shift the
lock mechanism 41 to the unlock state and differs from when the lock
mechanism 41 performs the locking operation.

[0077] The present embodiment has the advantages described below.

[0078] (1) In addition to the door unlocking operation, the unlock switch
31 is required to be operated for the power feeding plug locking device
40 to perform an unlocking operation. Accordingly, the locking device 40
does not perform unlocking when only a door unlocking operation is
performed. This reduces the operation frequency of the locking device 40
and thereby improves the component durability of the locking device 40.
Further, the requirement of operation of the unlock switch 31 notifies
the user that the locking device 40 has performed unlocking. If the
locking device 40 were to perform automatic unlocking when the user
performs only door unlocking, the user may forget that the locking device
40 is in the unlock state. In such a case, when the user leaves the
vehicle 1 unattended, the power feeding plug 10 may be removed in an
unauthorized manner. However, the present embodiment includes the unlock
switch 31 and allows the user to be more conscious of the unlocking
operation of the locking device 40.

[0079] (2) The power feeding plug locking device 40 starts to operate when
the power feeding plug 10 is connected to the power receiving connector
20. Thus, the lock mechanism 41 is operated only when necessary.

[0080] (3) The lock mechanism 41 is not operated whenever the doors are
locked and unlocked. Further, the locking device 40 automatically
performs a locking operation when the doors are locked. This ensures that
the locking operation of the locking device 40 is performed without being
forgotten.

[0081] (4) The unlock switch 31 is arranged in the cover module 7, which
is located near the power receiving connector 20 of the inlet 5. Thus,
the user can easily operate the unlock switch 31. Further, the unlock
switch 31 is exposed to the exterior when the lid 9 is open. Thus, an
unauthorized person cannot operate the unlock switch 31. Moreover, the
unlock switch 31 is operated only when necessary.

[0082] (5) The answer lamp 32 is illuminated when the lock operation and
the unlock operation are completed. Thus, when the power feeding plug
locking device 40 undergoes a lock operation or an unlock operation, the
user can recognize the operation of the power feeding plug locking device
40 from the illumination of the answer lamp 32.

[0083] (6) The user is verified through wireless verification performed by
the electronic key system 70. This is effective for preventing theft and
eliminates the need to prepare a separate verification device for the
power feeding plug locking device 40.

[0084] (7) In a state in which the lock member 47 is in contact with the
hook 16, the lock bar 46 restricts movement of the lock member 47 to
restrict movement of the hook 16. Further, disengagement of the lock bar
46 from the lock member 47 permits movement of the hook 16. Accordingly,
removal of the power feeding plug 10 is prohibited with a simple
structure.

[0085] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present
invention may be embodied in many other specific forms without departing
from the spirit or scope of the invention. Particularly, it should be
understood that the present invention may be embodied in the following
forms.

[0086] In the above embodiment, the lock bar 46 of the lock mechanism 41
may be moved in any direction.

[0087] In the above embodiment, the lock bar 46 is engaged with the lock
member 47 to restrict movement of the hook 16 of the power feeding plug
10. However, the lock bar 46 may directly restrict movement of the hook
16. In such a case, the lock member 47 is eliminated, and the lock bar 46
takes the role of the lock member.

[0088] The driving device of the lock mechanism 41 is not limited to the
motor 43. For example, a driving device such as a solenoid may be used.

[0089] In the above embodiment, the lock mechanism 41 restricts movement
of the hook 16 to prohibit removal of the power feeding plug 10. However,
removal of the power feeding plug 10 may be prohibited by restricting
removal of the coupler 14 of the power feeding plug 10.

[0090] In the above embodiment, the processing order of steps S3 and S4 in
FIG. 10B may be reversed. In this case, when performing the unlocking
operation with the power feeding plug locking device 40, for example, the
unlock switch 31 is first operated and this operation state is stored in
a memory or the like. Then, when the doors are unlocked in this
situation, the locking device 40 starts the unlocking operation. More
specifically, referring to FIG. 11, when charging is completed, the lock
ECU 77 determines whether the unlock switch 31 has been operated (step
S13). When an operation signal is not received from the unlock switch 31
(step S13: NO), the lock ECU 77 waits until receiving the operation
signal. Then, when the operation signal is received from the unlock
switch 31 (step S13: YES), the lock ECU 77 determines whether a door
unlock operation has been performed (step S14). When the doors are locked
(step S14: NO), the lock ECU 77 waits until the doors are unlocked. Then,
when the doors are unlocked (step S14: YES), the lock ECU 77 shifts the
locking device 40 to the unlock state (step S15).

[0091] In the above embodiment, a lock switch for the lock mechanism 41
may be arranged in the inlet 5. More specifically, the power feeding plug
locking device 40 may perform a locking operation if the lock switch is
operated and a door locking operation is performed. Moreover, the unlock
switch 31 and the lock switch may both be included in the inlet 5.
Further, a single switch may be shared as the unlock switch 31 and the
lock switch.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the unlock switch 31 does not have to be
located next to the power receiving connector 20, that is, in the
compartment closed by the lid. The unlock switch 31 may be arranged at a
different location.

[0093] In the above embodiment, the unlock switch 31 may be replaced by a
different operation unit.

[0094] In the above embodiment, the door locking operation and door
unlocking operation may be performed by performing at least either one of
smart verification and the pushing of the button 84 or 85 of the
electronic key 80.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the cover module 7 may be eliminated. In
this case, the unlock switch 31, the answer lamp 32, the charge indicator
33, and the like may be arranged in the power receiving connector 20 or
the inlet of the vehicle body 51.

[0096] In the above embodiment, the person using the power feeding plug 10
is verified based on the ID verification performed between the vehicle 1
and the electronic key 80 by the electronic key system. However, the
power feeding plug 10 may include a communication unit that performs
wireless communication with the electronic key 80. In this case, the
power feeding plug 10 performs ID verification directly with the
electronic key 80 to determine whether the person using the power feeding
plug 10 is authorized. The communication unit may be formed by an
antenna, transmitter, and receiver like that arranged in the vehicle and
may be an immobilizer amplifier when the electronic key includes a
transponder.

[0097] In the above embodiment, the electronic key system 70 may use an
immobilizer system using a transponder that originates a transmitted ID
code.

[0098] The frequency of the radio wave used by the electronic key system
70 is not necessarily limited to LF and UHF and other frequencies may be
used. Further, the frequency of the radio wave transmitted from the
vehicle 1 to the electronic key 80 and the frequency of the radio wave
returned from the electronic key 80 to the vehicle do not necessarily
have to be different and may be the same.

[0099] User verification is not limited to key verification that uses the
electronic key 80. Other types of verification, such as biometric
verification, may be performed.

[0100] In the above embodiment, a charge switch may be arranged on the
cable 12 to start and stop charging.

[0101] In the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to the
inlet 5 of the plug-in type hybrid vehicle 1. However, the present
invention is not limited to plug-in type vehicles and may be applied to
an inlet of an electric vehicle.

[0102] The machine in which the power feeding plug locking device 40 is
installed is not limited to the vehicle 1. The power feeding plug locking
device 40 may be applied to any machine that includes a rechargeable
battery.

[0103] The present examples and embodiments are to be considered as
illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited
to the details given herein, but may be modified within the scope and
equivalence of the appended claims.